49 Ground Beef Recipes People Rely On When They’re Running on Empty

No one wants to search high and low when their energy is gone, so 49 ground beef recipes people rely on when they’re running on empty are a welcome relief. Solutions that require minimal effort deliver dinner without much planning. It helps to know you can pull together a homemade meal quickly. Simple options make busy nights doable.

Close-up of a stack of folded tortillas filled with beef, melted cheese, lettuce, and onions on a white plate. — Big Mac Crunchwrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Layered Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil. — Layered Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Busy nights get brighter when a pan of this Layered Homemade Lasagna comes bubbling out of the oven. Cheesy layers and a rich sauce fill the kitchen with comforting smells that draw everyone in. I find it tough to resist sneaking an extra slice for myself. By the end, people are already asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Layered Homemade Lasagna

Stuffed Cabbage

A hearty blend of tender cabbage and savory filling makes this Stuffed Cabbage a regular on my table during long, tiring weeks. Saucy, warm, and full of flavor, it delivers a home-cooked meal without fuss. I save leftovers for a cozy lunch the next day. This dish always draws interest from first-time tasters.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Cabbage

Egg Roll in a Bowl

A bowl of stir-fried ground meat, shredded cabbage, and carrots, topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. — Egg Roll in a Bowl. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Stirring up this Egg Roll in a Bowl never fails to break the dinnertime rut, especially when energy is low. Familiar takeout flavors land on your plate in much less time. I toss extra in containers for easy lunches that don’t feel boring. A fast favorite for anyone who loves a bit of crunch and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll in a Bowl

Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Three baked sweet potatoes topped with minced meat, melted cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions on a white plate. — Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Comfort food gets a twist in this Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes recipe, where classic flavors meet a sweet and hearty base. A simple meal turns into something memorable and filling. I bring this out on busy nights when takeout sounds tempting. Smiles usually break out once these sandwiches hit the table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Sloppy Joes

Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Unexpected combinations keep things exciting, like in this Beef Enchilada Tortellini. The blend of pasta and Mexican-inspired flavor brings a burst of something new. I reach for this when weeknight meals need a pick-me-up. Second helpings are as common as the requests for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Loaded Taco Pizza

A close-up of a loaded flatbread pizza topped with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, seasoned meat, black beans, and a drizzle of creamy sauce. — Loaded Taco Pizza. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cravings collide in all the best ways with this Loaded Taco Pizza, which piles favorite toppings on a crispy crust. Every slice brings bold flavor and a bit of Tex-Mex fun to the dinner table. I offer up this recipe when the usual choices get old. Friends quickly ask for more pieces.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Taco Pizza

Cabbage Rolls

Cold nights feel less daunting once a dish of these Cabbage Rolls is set on the table. Each bite brings a thoughtful blend of beef and sauce wrapped in tender leaves. I usually freeze a batch for later when the week feels endless. Guests are often surprised at how comforting it can be.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Rolls

Beef Moussaka

A close-up of a serving of cheesy baked lasagna with visible layers of pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese. — Beef Moussaka. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Each forkful of this Beef Moussaka brings comfort and a hint of something special to dinnertime. Golden topping and rich beef filling make a busy night feel just a little more luxurious. I keep a few portions for lunches because the flavors get better overnight. People usually want the secret behind that creamy top layer.
Get the Recipe: Beef Moussaka

Hearty Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf

Close-up of a slice of cheesy taco casserole topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeño slices on a white plate, reminiscent of the comforting flavors found in slow cooker taco meatloaf. — Hearty Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dinner pretty much makes itself with this Hearty Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf simmering away on hectic evenings. The southwest flavor perks up even the sleepiest palate. I find myself reaching for seconds before anyone else. This meal gets better with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf

Bite-Sized Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate. — Bite-Sized Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Any gathering turns fun once trays of these Bite-Sized Mini Tacos show up, loaded with crunch and flavor. They disappear faster than larger main dishes can, sparking laughter and quick hands. I keep extra on hand for snacking the next day. The size alone invites everyone to try just one more.
Get the Recipe: Bite-Sized Mini Tacos

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

A close-up of a casserole dish featuring tater tots, creamy sauce, ground beef, corn, and garnished with chopped parsley. — Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Turning to this Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole makes dinner practically effortless when motivation runs low. Savory, filling layers set the stage for a hearty meal that tastes like real comfort. I sneak a spoonful straight from the pot before serving. People remember meals like this, especially on the toughest nights.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Sheet Pan Quesadillas

A close-up of stacked quesadilla wedges filled with black beans, ground meat, melted cheese, and diced vegetables, topped with sour cream, guacamole, and chopped herbs. — Sheet Pan Quesadillas. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hungry kids and grown-ups alike champion this Sheet Pan Quesadillas for its cheesy, crispy finish that comes together fast. One pan means less mess and more time relaxing. I split the leftovers for lunch the next day. No wedge sticks around for long when everyone’s hungry.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Quesadillas

Cheeseburger

Classic flavors shine in this Cheeseburger, which always delivers dinner quickly, even when inspiration is running low. Melty cheese and juicy beef tease your senses from the first bite. I wrap a few extras to save for late-night snacks. The simplicity keeps it on repeat in my kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger

Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon. — Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Just the thought of this Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole bubbling out of the oven can perk up an empty pantry night. Soft inside, crispy on top, it is the definition of reliable comfort food. I’ve found leftovers disappear before I can stash them away. Guests often ask for a second scoop before the meal ends.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

A close-up of Swedish meatballs covered in a creamy sauce, piled in a wooden bowl. — Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich, creamy sauce and tender meatballs make this Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) recipe a must-try for fans of classic comfort. Bringing a favorite restaurant meal home is easier than you’d think. I line up servings for both dinner and lunch the next day. The sauce always has people scraping the pan.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Baked Beef Tacos

Two tacos with beef, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro on a white plate. — Baked Beef Tacos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Hands reach out quickly for these Baked Beef Tacos, which combine a crispy shell with flavorful filling hot from the oven. Quick assembly makes dinnertime practically fuss-free. I doubled the recipe to keep up with hungry appetites. Encouraging words tend to start before the first bite is finished.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos

Cattle Drive Casserole

A slice of cheesy lasagna being lifted from a baking dish, topped with melted cheese and parsley. — Cattle Drive Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

After a long day, serving up this Cattle Drive Casserole can make life feel easier. Rich layers and a golden topping appeal to anyone sitting at the table. I scoop out second helpings for myself before the dish cools off. Every warm bite feels like a reward.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce. — Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Airy buns and a bold beef patty turn these Korean Burgers into a fast favorite whenever typical dinners seem dull. A burst of tangy sauce wakes up standard burger night. I offer up a big batch when friends drop in. The sweet-spicy flavor always draws a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Two sesame seed burgers with cheese, shredded lettuce, ground meat, and pickles, stacked on a plate. — Big Mac Sloppy Joe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dinner gets exciting with a pan of these Big Mac Sloppy Joe sandwiches, which bring together all the best parts of a burger in messy, saucy fashion. The familiar flavor gives everyone something to talk about. I grab a napkin, knowing there won’t be leftovers. People come back for seconds without asking.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sloppy Joe

Loaded Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, corn, avocado, sliced jalapeños, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, with lime slices on the side. — Loaded Southwest Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

As soon as these Loaded Southwest Sweet Potatoes land on the plate, the colors and flavors brighten even the dullest evening. Every bite brings bold textures plus a little squeeze of tang. I throw extras into containers for a grab-and-go lunch. Surprises in every mouthful keep people curious.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Southwest Sweet Potatoes

Taco Pasta Salad

A bowl of fusilli pasta mixed with ground beef, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and herbs, garnished with lime wedges. — Taco Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Salads turn into quick dinners the minute this Taco Pasta Salad enters the fridge. No one ever complains about the creamy, spicy blend of pasta and toppings. I like filling big bowls for casual get-togethers or lazy evenings at home. Friends and family dip in for seconds before long.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Cheeseburger Casserole

Combo meals don’t get much easier than this Cheeseburger Casserole, a mash-up of classic drive-thru taste and everyday comfort. Every scoop is packed with beef and cheese that pulls people back for more. I make a little extra for lunch, just in case. Dinner dilemmas fade away with a recipe like this.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Casserole

Hamburger Sliders

Three sesame seed buns filled with melted cheese and ground beef are arranged on a wooden board. — Hamburger Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Playful and bite-sized, these Hamburger Sliders always invite fun and sharing. Juicy patties wrapped in mini buns keep things lively at parties or family dinners. I save the leftovers for quick reheats after busy days. Just the aroma brings everyone to the table.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Sliders

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Close-up of a serving of cheesy baked spaghetti with meat sauce, topped with fresh parsley, being lifted from a dish. — Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Even the most tired cooks can handle this Million Dollar Spaghetti—layers of creamy cheese and thick sauce give new hope to empty cupboards. Every bite is pure comfort, and cleanup is just as easy. I serve generous helpings to avoid any fights over seconds. The name says it all: you won’t regret making this.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Cowboy Casserole

Rib-sticking layers of beef, sauce, and potatoes make this Cowboy Casserole a natural pick for tough nights. Every forkful leaves you a bit less stressed and a lot more full. I freeze half the pan to keep dinner simple later in the week. People perk up at the sight of it.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

Big Mac Sliders

Two sloppy joe sliders with melted cheese and ground beef filling stacked on a plate, with lettuce and a bowl in the background. — Big Mac Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dinner excitement gets a boost thanks to these Big Mac Sliders, each one stacked with that signature burger flavor. The tiny size makes it easy to grab just one more. I put out a platter when the crowd looks hungry and uninspired. The whole tray vanishes within minutes.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sliders

Pizza Casserole

A close-up of a baked pasta dish with melted cheese, pepperoni slices, and herbs, showing a serving being lifted, revealing gooey cheese strands. — Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Melty cheese and pizza sauce turn this Pizza Casserole into the solution for pizza cravings on a busy evening. Layers come together in one dish, which means an easier night for everyone. I keep a corner separate for lunch leftovers the next day. Even picky eaters cheer when they see this.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

A platter of nachos topped with ground meat, melted cheese, sliced jalapeños, cherry tomatoes, black beans, red onions, cilantro, and dollops of sour cream. Lime wedges are on the side. — Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Game nights and movie marathons both call for these Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos. Crunchy chips support all the best toppings, piled high and baked to perfection. I find myself setting the pan down only to watch it disappear in a flash. That oven-baked finish gets everyone talking.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

Big Mac Pinwheels

Close-up of puff pastry rounds topped with ground meat, shredded lettuce, sesame seeds, and a creamy sauce, arranged on parchment paper. — Big Mac Pinwheels. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Finger food fun reaches a peak with these Big Mac Pinwheels, a portable twist on fast food that comes together quickly. Swirls of beef, cheese, and tangy sauce make every bite a party. I lay them out on trays for guests to grab and go. No leftovers needed, because there never are any.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Pinwheels

Beef Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy dish with melted cheese, beef, beans, and scattered cilantro leaves. Red onion slices are visible in the foreground. — Beef Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic flavors pile up in this Beef Enchilada Casserole, which fills the oven and hearts in equal measure. All the savory essentials are tucked into one pan for easy serving. I cut out extra-large squares for families who ask. That crowd-pleasing taste always leads to recipe requests.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Casserole

Cowboy Sliders

A close-up of sliders filled with cooked ground beef, melted cheese, bacon, and sliced jalapeños on a white surface, with some jalapeño slices scattered nearby. — Cowboy Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Any gathering gets more interesting with a tray of these Cowboy Sliders. Beefy, saucy, and topped with big flavor, they’re just right when energy is running low. I bring a few for lunch when tomorrow gets busy. The combo of savory and sweet spices keeps everyone nibbling.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Sliders

Juicy Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun. — Juicy Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Seared crust and juicy center make this Juicy Copycat Smash Burger an easy answer to big cravings when energy is running out. Each burger reminds you of your favorite burger spot, but costs much less. I like to cook several at once for a true diner experience. The golden sear signals dinner is ready.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Copycat Smash Burger

Taco Salad

Sometimes, salad is exactly what hits the spot, especially when it has as much personality as this Taco Salad. Even on cold days, the crunch and color can lift your mood. There’s something about this mix that keeps things fresh, but still comforting. It’s a meal that feels fun, even if you are just eating at home.
Get the Recipe: Taco Salad

Cowboy Queso Dip

A tortilla chip is dipped into a skillet of cheesy ground beef and tomato dip, with melted cheese stretching between the chip and the dip. — Cowboy Queso Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cold nights and group hangouts call for a bubbling pot of this Cowboy Queso Dip. Gooey, meaty, and just a little spicy, it’s always the star of the snack table. There’s something about warm cheese dip that makes conversations last longer and laughter come easier. I scoop some onto my plate before it disappears. Everyone circles back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Queso Dip

Hamburger Soup

A bowl of ground meat stew with potatoes, peas, carrots, and herbs in a rich broth, garnished with chopped parsley. — Hamburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Steamy, beefy broth and hearty vegetables fill the bowl in this Hamburger Soup, making tough evenings more bearable. Filling and hot, it works wonders as either dinner or lunch. I save a serving for later and regret it if I forget. This soup brings new life to leftover ground beef.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Soup

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

All the appeal of stuffed peppers lands in a single baking dish with this Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Colorful, cheesy, and loaded with beef, it’s much easier to prepare after a long day. I split out a second dish for freezing when things get hectic. The leftovers taste even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Copycat Savvy Slider

A hamburger with cheese and lettuce on it. — Copycat Savvy Slider. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic fast-food flavor finds a homemade upgrade in this Copycat Savvy Slider recipe. Soft buns and savory beef come together for little bites with big taste. I put out a tray for anyone who needs a fast dinner. Everyone tries at least two before saying they’re full.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Savvy Slider

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese. — Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mornings, afternoons, or nights, this Crunchwrap Supreme delivers fast food fun without the drive-thru. A crispy outside holds together all the best fillings for a complete meal in minutes. I make extras for a handy lunch the next day. Every bite feels like a reward after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Instant Pot Spaghetti

A close-up of spaghetti topped with ground meat and tomato sauce, garnished with grated cheese and a basil leaf, served on a white plate. — Instant Pot Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fast-moving evenings feel easier with this Instant Pot Spaghetti. Quick pressure cooking means dinner lands on the table in less time, but still brings classic comfort. I tuck a portion away for midnight cravings. The leftovers don’t last long in my house.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spaghetti

Hamburger Casserole

Dinner gets seamless with this Hamburger Casserole, packing classic burger flavors into a spoonable, cozy meal. Even picky eaters usually dig into this hearty dish. I serve big portions to hold everyone over until morning. Empty plates are proof that you picked the right recipe.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Italian Wedding Soup

Bowl of soup with meatballs, spinach, pasta, and vegetables in broth, topped with grated cheese and herbs. — Italian Wedding Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tiny meatballs and leafy greens give this Italian Wedding Soup a special spot among quick ground beef dishes. Clear broth keeps things light yet filling. I reach for this soup when I want a hot meal with a little flair. It usually earns a round of compliments at the table.
Get the Recipe: Italian Wedding Soup

Spaghetti Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side. — Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No-fuss, no-frills pasta like this Spaghetti Bolognese makes long days disappear once you take the first bite. Slow flavor and rich sauce come together without much work on your part. I pour on extra sauce just because I can. This meal has a way of bringing everyone together.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Cheesy Taco Casserole

A bowl of taco casserole topped with melted cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and green onions, with a creamy dip in the background. — Cheesy Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tex-Mex cravings get answered in one dish with this Cheesy Taco Casserole, a speedy win for any tired cook. Cheesy layers and spicy beef keep things interesting until the last bite. I stash a piece for later, knowing it reheats in seconds. Kids and adults both cheer.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Taco Casserole

Salisbury Steak

Several browned meat patties in a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with chopped chives. — Salisbury Steak. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Hearty and savory, this Salisbury Steak delivers comfort fast, blanketed in smooth gravy. The recipe is easy enough to manage when creativity runs low, but flavor is wanted. I plate extras for easy dinner options later in the week. Those thick, classic steaks win over anyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Salisbury Steak

Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Three slices of glazed meatloaf are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of brown sauce. — Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Homestyle flavor shows up in every slice of this Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, a quick fix for long days. A tangy glaze seals in the beefy goodness you expect from the real thing. I save leftovers for incredible sandwiches. Some recipes just never go out of style.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon. — Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy broth, chunks of beef, and potato bites make this Cheeseburger Soup a warm hug after a hard day. The flavors are familiar, but the soup feels like something special. Even the pickiest eaters go for a second helping. I ladle out bowls for chilly evenings at home. Bread on the side helps mop up every bit.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Beef Chili

Two bowls of chili with kidney beans, meat, tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro. A black spoon in one bowl. Additional chili flakes in a small dish nearby. — Beef Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Simple spices and thick, flavorful stew make this Beef Chili a true go-to for cold, draining days. Each spoonful is hearty and satisfying. Extra toppings let you make every bowl different. I always save some for reheating later in the week. The longer it sits, the better it gets.
Get the Recipe: Beef Chili

Sloppy Joe

Messy, saucy, and dependable, these Sloppy Joe sandwiches wash away dinner stress in just minutes. Old-school flavor comes together with no effort required. I opt for these when my brain is running on empty. Napkins are always necessary, but complaints are rare.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe

Big Mac Crunchwrap

Classic burger flavor gets a lunchbox-ready twist in this Big Mac Crunchwrap. The layers of cheese, beef, and lettuce make it extra satisfying. Each folded wrap hides a filling surprise for busy hands and happy faces. I wrap them up for on-the-go meals. Everybody loves the crispy bite and all the secret sauce goodness.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Crunchwrap